Twenty years.

Can ‌you ⁤believe it has been twenty years?

Back in 2004, I had been⁤ contributing as a columnist for‌ Rotoworld since 1999, treating it as⁣ a hobby.

It was a fun activity ⁤for me, ‌akin to a⁣ part-time job or ‍a side hustle. ‍I had a full-time career (as a Hollywood screenwriter, no less), a wife, and ​a dog. A couple of times a week—depending on ⁣the sport and the season—I would write⁢ “Love/Hate” or another column.

Living in Los ⁣Angeles meant I would⁢ simply ‍write something and send ​it via‌ email. That was the extent of⁤ it.⁣ There was ‍no office‌ to attend, no team meetings to sit through, and no podcasts to record​ with anyone at Rotoworld.

It was enjoyable, ​low-pressure,⁣ and didn’t consume too much of my time.

However, ⁣in 2004, while having lunch with a successful​ entrepreneur friend, he questioned my ⁤ongoing grind⁣ for merely $25 a column. “Stop ⁢working for the man,” he encouraged, “and become the man.”

I reassured ⁣him that I wasn’t‍ concerned about the pay. I had‍ a stable job that covered my living‌ expenses, and this was simply a passion project for me. I loved fantasy sports and found joy in it. For the past five years, I hadn’t​ thought beyond⁣ that.

Yet, as we talked, his enthusiasm began to rub off on me. ⁣“You’ve built⁢ an​ audience⁤ of‌ some level,” he pointed out, asking if⁢ I thought they would follow me. I honestly had ⁢no idea.

Editor’s Note: Join or create ​a private Yahoo Fantasy league ⁣and enter the $1 Million NBC Sweepstakes. Download the new Yahoo Fantasy app ‌or click here for⁤ more information.

This was‍ long before ⁣the advent of⁣ social media. My ⁤understanding of how many readers I had was ‌quite limited, and I held a comfortable ⁤position as one of the leads at Rotoworld. Transitioning‌ to start my own venture felt incredibly ⁤risky—did I⁤ really want to give up my excellent current role?

I conveyed to my‍ friend that I was a complete novice in​ many areas. I had no ⁤knowledge regarding raising funds ​from investors, no experience in‍ managing teams, and literally zero understanding of how to attract internet ⁤traffic, set up a payment system, or handle the legalities ⁣of forming ‍my own company, to name a few.

“Don’t worry about it,” my friend assured me. “I’ll teach you everything you need to know.”

I‍ returned home to discuss it with⁤ my ‌wife. The truth⁢ was that I ⁤was feeling disenchanted with the entertainment‌ industry, and I found immense‌ joy ‍in creating fantasy content. The ‍thought of making it my full-time profession was exciting.

At that time, there​ weren’t really ⁤any full-time positions in fantasy sports, meaning my only option was to venture out on‌ my own.

The prospect was terrifying.​ I was extremely anxious,⁣ but‌ ultimately took the plunge. I departed ⁣Rotoworld​ and⁢ purchased the domain‍ “TalentedMrRoto.com”… which, by​ the ⁢way, is a terrible URL. When discussing it ‍on the radio, I would stumble over whether ‌to use one or two “r’s,” ‌and the length​ of⁤ the⁢ name felt cumbersome. It was my first mistake, but certainly not the last.

By the way, my friend never ended ⁢up assisting⁢ me. He was too busy—I think ⁤I received ⁣one brief phone call.

⁢ after that lunch –‍ but I had already made the leap into the deep⁤ end so there‌ was nothing to do,‍ but start swimming and hope ⁤I‍ found my way ⁢out.

I made ⁣so many mistakes,‌ man. To this day I make them. But, painful as they may be in the moment, if there’s one good thing about ​mistakes it’s this: They are truly learning moments. I’ve made‌ some big mistakes,‍ but I haven’t‌ made‌ the same one twice.

Don’t worry, this isn’t going to be a rose-colored stroll down memory lane. But you do anything for that long you’re allowed a ‌little reflection.

As we head into the 2024 season, my 20th of trying to make‌ a living purely from fantasy sports and sports betting ‍content, my⁣ 20th of ‍being an ⁣entrepreneur, my ​20th ⁢anniversary of going out “on my own” I’ve learned some lessons.

Lessons that I think are useful for entrepreneurship, for life, and honestly just being a fantasy manager.

1. Trust yourself above ⁣all others.
I can’t tell you ‍how many times I would get advice about ⁢something ‍in ⁢business and my ⁤gut would be like “this doesn’t feel right” but I’d be like, well, “this person knows more than me⁤ so… okay.” And it turned out I should⁤ have trusted my ⁢gut. At ⁣the end of ⁣the day, it’s your‌ company, family or fantasy team. You have to ​live with it and no one thinks about ⁣it or knows it like you. Trust ‍yourself above all ⁢others.

2. Take your time, ⁣ask every question, be thorough when you hire people.
This‍ is ⁣true ⁢whether you are‌ running a business or just ‍hiring a babysitter. We all​ “hire” people. But once you hire‌ someone, let‌ them do the job ⁣you ‌hired ⁣them to do.⁤ Micromanaging ​not only impairs their ability ⁤to ⁣do ⁤the job, but it takes focus away from the job you’re supposed to be doing.​ Hire good people and then‌ get out of their way.

That‍ said…

3. If you made a⁤ mistake in hiring, admit the‌ mistake quickly and move on.
Too​ many times I ​stuck with someone wrong for the job (or fantasy player that wasn’t⁣ getting it​ done)‍ for way too long. The longer they are ​there, the more damage ‍they will cause and you are ultimately doing them a favor as well. No one wants to be in ⁢a‍ position they aren’t right for. It’s best to pull ​the plug early and move on. Too many times in my career I ⁣kept people around much longer than ⁤I should ⁤because I “felt bad” or tried to talk myself into that it wasn’t as⁢ bad‌ as I thought or that ⁢the person would improve. It never worked out​ that way.

4. ‍Be loyal.
There ‌have⁢ certainly been times over ‌the years that people I have been loyal to ⁢have then turned⁣ around and stabbed me in the back,‌ but for the most‌ part, when someone knows you truly⁢ have‍ their back no matter‍ what, you get the same in⁢ return.

5. I’m a big believer in you’re only as good‌ as your word.
When⁤ you⁤ say you’ll do something,‌ do it. If I shake your hand and tell‍ you something‍ is⁢ done,⁣ it’s done. That‍ attitude ⁣has served me ⁢well and it’s appreciated.

6.⁤ Be nice, but ⁣not too ⁤nice.‍ Be supportive, kind and help where you can. Treat ⁢people well.
This includes those you work for, those who work⁣ for‍ you, and everyone that you come in contact ​with. ‍The old ⁣saying⁤ you draw more flies⁣ with honey than‌ vinegar is true. I try to start every meeting ⁣and⁣ call with the same phrase. “How can I help?” The most valuable resource you‌ have is other​ people. And if they‍ feel like you’re nice and loyal, that will⁤ go a long⁢ way towards them returning‌ those feelings towards you. That ⁣said, don’t be so nice ‌that you get taken advantage of or walked ⁣all over. When you need‍ to, ⁣stick up for yourself because⁤ often no ‍one else will. And ‌by being nice, ​when you DO have ​to raise an issue, it will carry more weight.

7. Always take the meeting.
Even if ‍it doesn’t seem to make⁢ sense on the surface, I always⁣ take ‍the meeting. I can’t tell you‍ how many meetings or calls I’ve ⁤had over ⁣the years that‍ didn’t seem to make sense at the time, but I developed a relationship and it came‌ into play later. Sometimes much later and sometimes in ways‍ that were unexpected, but you just never know. I always ‌learn something⁤ from meeting someone new which is the⁤ biggest key. ‌When ‌you get an opportunity⁣ to talk to someone, do ⁢what Ted Lasso​ says. “Be curious, not judgmental.”

8. Pay it ⁣forward.
There‌ are a lot of people that went ⁤out of their way ⁤when I ⁣was ⁢starting out in this industry to help me out and there’s nothing I wouldn’t‍ do for any⁢ of them. I’ve had a truly great 20-year run (so far!) and there’s​ lots that I am proud of. ⁣But maybe there’s nothing I’m prouder ⁢of ​than the people ⁣I have helped in their career the way​ they have helped ​me. A writer named Joe Mason recently wrote ‌about⁢ the⁣ “Matthew Berry coaching tree” ‌and​ I‌ was blown away with ⁣the article. Not for an⁣ ego reason, but because I’m⁣ so ​excited by so many people that have⁤ established​ themselves and I know they too ⁢will pay ⁤it forward.

9.⁣ Don’t worry about anyone ‍else.
I was talking with one of my friends ⁤recently, a‍ really​ good fantasy writer. He‌ was upset because⁤ he had, in fact, been ripped ‌off. Someone had taken his​ deeply-researched article and turned⁤ it into a ‍popular​ twitter thread without giving ⁤him any‍ credit.​ I told him he was ‍right⁤ to be upset. But, ⁤even though it doesn’t seem ⁤like it, it IS a form of flattery. It took me‍ a long time to get comfortable with​ this and‍ not let it bother me, but I told him I’ve ‌seen so many “Manifesto’s”⁤ and “100 Facts” knock-offs, people trying to write opens like me, do‌ podcast jokes like‍ me, all sorts of companies starting⁢ newsletters‍ and doing a lot of things we’ve been doing⁢ at Fantasy⁣ Life, on and on. While frustrating, I said to him, what ⁢are⁢ you? A one-hit wonder? Let others be followers,‍ I told him. You keep⁤ leading the ⁣way. Worry less about ‍what other people are doing​ and ‌focus only‍ on what you can control –⁤ your work. Keep pushing forward.‌ If you only had one good idea, you weren’t going‌ to make it very far anyways.

10. Keep climbing that mountain.
I’ve⁣ written before ⁢about⁢ my late, great Uncle Lester Gold. Lester ‌was, by any metric, incredibly successful. Dropping out of school‌ at age⁢ 10 to ​help support his family, he was the epitome of a self-made‍ man, selling junk on the streets of Denver until he opened his first used car dealership at age ⁣18.⁤ Many ⁢more ‍dealerships followed after that, ⁣along with‍ land ⁤development, oil ‌fields‌ and much‍ more. Married to the same woman from age 18 ⁣until he passed away in his 80s, Lester was as successful a person ⁤in both life ⁤and business as anyone I⁢ have ever met. I bring ⁢him‌ up here because every time I saw him and asked him ​how he was ‌doing, he⁤ had the exact same answer:

“Still climbing⁤ that​ mountain, Matthew. Still climbing that mountain.”

He was⁤ never satisfied. Whether it’s your‍ life, your health, your knowledge, your relationships, even your business … you can always improve. ‌His attitude was that you’re never done. No matter how‌ high you ⁢get, you keep climbing⁣ that mountain.

I love that. Continue to keep innovating ‌and pushing forward.

It’s interesting. ⁢When I ‌was faced with the decision whether or not to ⁢leave ESPN, there were ⁣a lot of factors ⁤to consider. ESPN had offered me‌ a new three-year contract, a nice‍ raise and no additional ​duties. All I had to do ⁢was give up Fantasy Life. ​And I talked about it with ‍my wife. I loved working at ESPN. They

They treated me well, and I enjoyed a⁢ fantastic job along with many friends there. ‌However, I didn’t​ want⁤ to sacrifice Fantasy Life, ⁣and I sensed that returning to my previous⁣ role would present little challenge. After all, I had essentially‍ performed⁤ the same job for 15 years. Going back felt like merely riding off into the sunset.

On the other hand,‍ continuing to ‍develop Fantasy Life posed a significant challenge, one ‍that would certainly require ‌hard work. ‍Yet, I was eager to continue climbing that⁤ mountain. So, I ⁤made the decision to ⁤leave.

Then NBC offered their support, inviting me to join ‌them. In case you missed it, we ‌announced a formal ⁣partnership this week between Rotoworld⁣ and Fantasy ⁢Life, which includes the Rotoworld Draft ⁤Guide as part of FantasyLife+. ⁣It’s been an incredible experience.

For me, the ⁤key to ‍surviving for 20 years and‍ aiming for another⁤ 20 lies in relentless pursuit. My latest obsession⁢ is Guillotine Leagues, which provides an incredibly fun twist on fantasy football. I enjoyed it ​so much that‍ I ended up buying the company.

In ⁤a Guillotine League, you draft‍ a team‌ as you normally ‌would. You field⁤ a lineup ​just like in standard leagues. However, the difference lies in the format: there’s no head-to-head ​competition.⁣ Instead, your lineup‌ competes against all the other ‌teams ⁢in the league. At the end of ​the week, ‌the team with the lowest score is eliminated—permanently. That’s it; their season ⁢is ​over. This process continues until only one ‌team stands victorious.

Here’s the twist:⁣ all players from the eliminated team return to​ the free agent‌ pool. So, just imagine it’s Week 6 and Jalen Hurts and⁣ Breece Hall are suddenly available on⁣ waivers. It’s pure⁣ madness.⁣ Each player starts with $1000 FAAB to use throughout the season, and since there ⁤are no head-to-head ‌matchups, ‌you can accommodate uneven team numbers in the⁣ league. Additionally, you can start a league at any time, as long as‍ you⁤ have one more⁢ member than the‍ number of weeks ⁢remaining in ‌the season. For example, if there ⁢are four weeks left, you can⁢ establish a five-person league. Anyway, that’s my latest endeavor. I’ve often been credited with helping ⁤to‍ bring fantasy football ‍into the mainstream, and now I aim to do the same with ​ Guillotine Leagues. Oh, and⁢ it’s completely free ​to play,‌ making it a great addition to​ your other leagues. Believe me—once you⁣ try it, ‍you’ll be hooked. I loved it so much that I literally purchased the company.

The ‍Rotoworld Fantasy⁣ Football ‌Draft Guide is now available exclusively through a new partnership with Matthew⁢ Berry’s ‌Fantasy Life. Purchase a⁢ FantasyLife+ subscription to ​access​ the Rotoworld Draft Guides, along with ⁣award-winning Fantasy, Betting & DFS tools.Use BERRY20 at checkout⁤ to save 20%!

The most‍ important lesson I’ve learned over these‌ 20 years is that ‌you truly‍ never know ‌what ⁣to expect. Each ⁣year brings surprises, challenges, unexpected opportunities, ‍and pitfalls to navigate—whether in life, business, or fantasy football. Your ‌attitude towards these‍ experiences will make all the difference.

As we approach the ​2024‍ fantasy football season, continue your ascent, regardless of the challenges ahead.

This leads us, albeit slowly, into the player analysis portion of our column. As always, this is NOT a ‌column focused on⁢ sleepers and busts. Instead,‌ it addresses⁣ market ⁢inefficiencies. The players I “Love” are ⁢those I believe will outperform their Average Draft Position (ADP), while my “Hates” ⁣are those I feel are being⁢ drafted too​ high. Notably, there are significantly more “Loves” than “Hates,” as underperforming ⁣players typically have⁣ lower draft positions reflecting public sentiment regarding their prospects.

A bit of ⁤housekeeping:

Make⁣ sure to​ catch the Fantasy Football Happy Hour with Connor Rogers, Jay Croucher, Lawrence Jackson, and myself. You can⁤ listen daily wherever you enjoy podcasts,⁤ watch on the NFL on NBC YouTube channel, access it on-demand via Peacock, or tune in live ​at 3 p.m. ET on SiriusXM Channel 85. Beginning on Sundays during the season, we will also⁤ host Fantasy Football Pregame from‌ 11⁢ a.m. to ​1 ‌p.m. ET on Peacock and the NFL‍ on⁢ NBC YouTube channel. I’m also excited​ for another fantastic season ⁤as part of the Football ⁢Night in America team, leading into the weekly Sunday⁢ Night Football matchup.

Many thanks ​to my producer, Damian Dabrowski, ⁢for his invaluable assistance throughout⁣ this column. Now, let’s dive in:

Quarterbacks I Love in 2024

Kyler ⁤Murray, Arizona Cardinals

(My rank: QB5 – Yahoo ADP: QB8)

“RIDE. OR. DIE!”

Currently, Kyler is being drafted as QB 10 on ESPN and QB 8 on Yahoo. Since he entered ⁢the⁢ NFL in 2019, he has consistently been ⁣a top 5 QB in points ​per game (PPG). He averages over 20 PPG across his career ‌and has been a ⁤top 10 fantasy⁤ QB in PPG for four consecutive seasons. ​Remarkably,⁣ this includes last season when he‌ was recovering from a torn ACL, and concerns were raised about his mobility. Despite these worries, Murray managed to score over 17 fantasy points in six ⁤out of ⁣eight games last season, maintaining a career-long average of at least 30 rushing yards per‍ game. Importantly, he also ​recorded⁣ a career-high ​of 30% of his team’s carries at the ⁤goal‌ line last⁣ season. As he heads into ‌this year, he⁤ is joined ‌by one ‍of the ‌most promising WR prospects ​in Marvin Harrison Jr., an⁣ emerging top-tier tight end in Trey McBride, and a defense that should require‍ him to ‍throw and run frequently in challenging game situations.⁤ If you’re skeptical about his potential for a breakout season, consider that this week, #FFHappyHour podcast friend Rich‌ Gannon stated ⁤that ‌Murray is “leaps and‌ bounds” ahead ⁤physically⁢ and mentally compared‍ to this time last year.⁤ Last season, he ‌performed as a‌ top 10⁤ QB⁢ while facing a tough situation with limited offensive⁣ weapons. Perhaps most ​strikingly, there’s been little chatter about⁣ Kyler Murray and video games this summer, especially with the ‌release of College Football 25! I know friends who haven’t left their homes in weeks! ⁤Clearly, Kyler Murray is focused⁣ and ready, and he definitely makes my preseason Love List.

Anthony Richardson, Indianapolis Colts

(My rank: ⁣QB6 – Yahoo ADP: QB6)

Anthony Richardson epitomizes the concept of a small sample size⁤ in‌ 2024. His rookie season⁣ was cut ⁤short ⁣in 2023 due to injury,⁣ leaving him inactive​ after ⁣October 8. However, in the limited time he did play, he averaged an⁤ impressive 25.3 fantasy points over two full games, scoring more than 20 points in each. ⁢As a rookie, ‌that’s… what’s the ‌phrase? Quite exceptional! He also ⁤recorded over 10 rushing attempts in​ each of ⁤those‌ games.

games and managed 35% of ​his team’s rushing attempts, in addition to⁣ 38% of the Colts’ carries in the ​red zone and at the goal line. ⁣However, don’t assume he ⁢was just a running quarterback who only made short⁣ passes. Richardson threw ⁢23.8% of his passes deep (15-plus yards downfield), a statistic that would​ have ranked him in the top 3 for the entire ⁣season. ⁤Yes, the sample‍ size is small, ⁣but sometimes you can just tell that a player has⁢ IT, and I ‌am completely on board with a healthy Richardson for fantasy ⁤this season. In fact, I ⁢don’t believe ⁣anyone is‌ more optimistic about Richardson’s potential ‌than I am. What’s that? Richardson just ‍ claimed he could out-dunk LeBron? Fine, ​outside of ⁣Anthony Richardson, I am the most optimistic⁣ about his talents. ⁤He is⁤ my QB6 this year, and I believe that being a top⁢ QB1 in fantasy is a definite possibility.

Jordan Love, Green⁢ Bay⁢ Packers

(My ⁤Rank: QB9 – Yahoo⁤ ADP QB10)

Just last month, ⁤Jordan Love signed a 4-year, ​$220 million contract featuring a record-breaking $75 million signing bonus. This‍ month marks his first appearance on the preseason Love List. I’ll let ⁤Jordan decide which moment⁢ is more transformative. What seems evident, ⁣however,​ is that Jordan⁢ Love‍ values ​fantasy production. ‍Last season,‌ he tallied eight games‌ with 20 or more fantasy points—a figure ​surpassed‌ only⁢ by Josh Allen and⁣ Jalen ‌Hurts. Love also recorded ⁣11 ​games with two or more ‌touchdown ‍passes (the‍ highest total), aided largely ‍by his ranking‌ second⁤ in the league for‍ red zone pass attempts and deep pass‌ attempts. With a talented and deep group of ⁢pass catchers, Love ‍also proved to be a dual threat,⁣ contributing​ an average of 2.9 PPG ⁣as a rusher. ⁢In an efficient offense,⁤ where‌ Green Bay ranked in the top 12 for yards, ‍points, ⁣and touchdowns last season, it’s⁣ reasonable​ to expect Jordan Love to take another step forward in his second full⁢ year as a starter.

Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders

(My Rank: QB10 – Yahoo ​ADP QB13)

If you believe I previously backed Washington players of dubious talent, just wait until you see how ⁣enthusiastic I am about ‍a Washington quarterback ⁢whose skills are beyond question. Nevertheless,‍ I maintain ⁣professionalism, so I promise ⁢not to get too overly ⁤excited about Jayden Daniels,​ the quarterback of‌ my⁤ favorite team, until after ‌his 9th or 10th Super Bowl victory. Agreed? Agreed. In any case, after a season in which Daniels won‍ the Heisman and became the ‌first ⁣FBS player to achieve 350-plus passing‌ yards and ​200-plus‌ rushing yards‌ in a single game, he now joins Washington with Kliff Kingsbury‍ as his ‌coordinator. Let’s‍ not forget ‍that during Kingsbury’s tenure coaching Kyler Murray from 2019-2022,⁢ Murray ranked as QB5 in PPG. Daniels has‍ already displayed a solid grasp of ‍Kliff’s offense in the preseason, with one of‌ his ⁤first ⁢notable plays ⁤being a check-out ‍of…

As he casually throws a 42-yard pass to Dyami Brown on screen, Daniels looks to launch the ball deep while ⁣also utilizing his legs frequently. Currently ranked as QB 13 on Yahoo, he arrives in the ​NFL after racking up 2,019 rushing yards⁤ and 21 touchdowns during his two seasons at‍ LSU as a starter. Last year, ⁣the four NFL quarterbacks who managed to rush for “just” over 400 yards combined posted⁤ an average of 19.9 PPG. I’m not selectively presenting facts⁤ or adjusting ‍data here; these are genuine positive points about a Washington quarterback. THIS‍ IS HOW LIFE SHOULD ‍BE! (Note: I passionately sang that statement from the⁤ highest peak in Connecticut.) Future Hall of Famer ⁤Jayden Daniels is on my Love List for 2024 and forever ⁢resides in my ‍heart.

Others receiving votes: ⁤Not many individuals can claim Brock Purdy ‍ as their fantasy pick. However, ⁣he is a solid⁣ quarterback ⁤to partner with. Across 21 career starts, Purdy⁣ has⁤ recorded an average of 18.4 ​PPG, and‍ he achieved eight games with over 20 fantasy points ⁣last season, tying him with Jordan Love ​for the third-most. Additionally, Purdy led all⁤ quarterbacks in both ⁣yards per⁤ pass attempt and completion rate on deep passes.‍ … Last season, Trevor Lawrence registered ⁤the fourth-highest number of pass attempts per game and the sixth-most attempts ⁤for ⁤deep passes. With the addition⁢ of deep threats like Gabe Davis and ⁢rookie Brian Thomas Jr., we should ​see his efficiency rise significantly. Plus,⁣ Lawrence’s mobility ⁣adds a higher ⁢floor to his ‌game; he’s ⁢had back-to-back seasons ‍with four or‌ more rushing⁢ touchdowns and⁤ is‍ averaging 3.5 PPG from rushing alone during⁤ that timeframe. … Kirk Cousins was‍ enjoying a ‌standout year before his Achilles injury sidelined him. He ​was tied for first⁣ in touchdown​ passes, second in passing yards, and ⁣third in passer rating.⁤ While​ Cousins will ‍be adapting to a ​new offense, it’s not entirely unfamiliar; Atlanta’s​ offensive⁤ coordinator Zac Robinson collaborated‍ with Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell at the Rams.⁢ Although I usually shy ‌away from pocket⁤ passers in fantasy, he’s currently⁤ being drafted outside the top ⁢20‌ on Yahoo. Really?⁣ … Over the last two⁤ seasons, Jared Goff ⁤ has‍ averaged ​18.4⁤ PPG ‍indoors ‌(compared to just ⁤13.3 PPG outdoors). Why is ​this significant? It seems the NFL scheduler has Goff on their fantasy team,‌ as‌ Detroit will only play three outdoor games this season. … Last season, Matthew Stafford ‌ ranked in the top 6 for passing yards per game and⁣ had the fourth-most red⁣ zone pass attempts, finishing as QB9 in PPG over ‌his last​ seven games. ⁢There’s every indication he will enjoy another successful season after ⁣the Rams bolstered both his offensive line and receiving corps in the offseason. … Will Levis ⁢ is anything but​ timid about launching the​ football downfield. Last season, he topped all qualified quarterbacks in air yards ⁢per ​throw ‌(aDOT) and deep ball rate, with 22% ‌of his ​passes traveling 20 or more air yards (the next closest quarterback was below⁤ 15%). With the additions of Calvin⁣ Ridley and Tyler Boyd in Tennessee, along with ⁣DeAndre Hopkins’ return and a new aggressive play caller in Brian Callahan, Levis ⁤now has even greater targets for deep shots.

Quarterbacks ⁢I Hate in ⁤2024

C.J. Stroud, Houston Texans

(My Rank: QB7 – Yahoo ADP QB5)

Whenever I present my “Hates” for the year, I feel compelled to clarify that I don’t genuinely hate any of these ​players. Not at all personally, and ​rarely as athletes, either. They are all incredibly talented. In this context, “hate” simply refers to my lack of ‍enthusiasm for​ their fantasy value at their ​current draft ‍positions. I could NEVER harbor personal animosity towards ⁤C.J. Stroud. Consider this: he plays football … I engage ​in fantasy football. He’s 22 … I have been 22. His first and​ middle name is Coleridge Bernard⁣ … I’ve attended college, my name⁣ is Berry and I have a yard.‍ We are ⁣practically the same person! So, with⁣ that established, let’s concentrate⁤ on fantasy value, shall we?​ While I ‌believe Stroud is an excellent real-life quarterback who​ will likely have a ‍strong season in his second ⁤year, especially …

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with the addition ‍of Stefon⁣ Diggs. Here’s the⁢ problem. He’s being drafted as a top⁢ five fantasy quarterback on​ Yahoo. Personally, ⁣I⁣ believe this is too high, especially since​ he‌ doesn’t run ⁣much (much like his counterpart Matty B!). Consider this: Over the past two seasons, every quarterback ‍finishing ⁤in the top five for points per game‍ (PPG)​ has rushed for​ at least 240 yards. Last season, Stroud managed only 167 ⁢rushing yards. Furthermore,‌ since 2020, only two quarterbacks have cracked the top five in PPG at the position with fewer than 240 rushing yards. Those​ quarterbacks were Tom Brady⁣ in 2021 (5,316 passing yards, ⁣43 touchdowns) and⁣ Aaron Rodgers in 2020 (4,299 yards, 48 touchdowns). If⁤ Stroud can replicate those impressive ‍passing‍ numbers this season, I’ll​ gladly admit ​I was wrong about his ​top five potential. However, given that the Texans​ ranked⁣ 14th in pass rate last season and 17th in red zone passing​ rate, combined with a solid defense that could limit shootouts, how confident can we be that Stroud will⁣ achieve around ⁣4,500 passing yards and 45 touchdowns? It’s challenging ‍to foresee. And I would know; I’m practically C.J. Stroud.

Tua Tagovailoa, Miami ‍Dolphins

(My Rank: QB17 – Yahoo ADP QB12)

Call me Brian Flores because I’m not a fan​ of Tua Tagovailoa. Well, ​that’s not entirely ‍accurate. I enjoyed Tua when⁤ he took the stage⁢ and performed “Wagon Wheel” with Darius Rucker. I liked meeting Tua in person; he ‌was very pleasant. I also‍ appreciate Tua in warmer climates. Over the last two seasons—from September to November—Tua⁢ has averaged 18.4 PPG. However, in December? During⁤ the‌ highly​ competitive ⁤fantasy playoffs? His average drops to just 14.1 PPG ‍for the same ⁣timeframe. That’s ‍the​ core issue. Last season, this ⁣decline was even⁢ more notable, as ‍Tua ended up⁤ as ⁤QB23 in​ PPG during ‍the ⁣last 11 weeks after a strong start. ‍There were also consistency⁢ issues in 2023, with ​Tua scoring fewer than ⁤15 fantasy points in ‌over half of his games. ⁤Moreover, almost all of his fantasy points (98% last year) came from passing,⁢ as Tua averaged merely 4.4 rushing yards per game. (Notice a pattern? I’m not keen on QBs who aren’t dual threats). Drafted ‌as QB12 on Yahoo,‍ you could​ certainly do worse ⁣than Tua ​as‍ your fantasy quarterback, ⁤but‌ there are ‌definitely better options available.

Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers

(My⁣ Rank: QB19 –‌ Yahoo ADP QB19)

Michael Jordan ‍had a fairly average 17.7 ⁤PPG during his‍ college years at ‍North Carolina. I mention this because, back in the day, people used to claim that ⁤the only person who could hinder Michael Jordan was Dean Smith, the⁤ coach at the time. Now, I’m⁣ not directly comparing Justin Herbert to Michael Jordan. (Please spare me the internet wrath!) But Jim Harbaugh?‌ He serves as a‌ decent comparison⁣ to Dean Smith. Despite ‌Harbaugh’s success, he⁣ severely limits offensive output from his star players. During his time ‍in San Francisco, the 49ers ranked⁣ second in rush ⁣rate and THIRTY-FIRST ‌in pass attempts. His offensive approach has been‌ similar at ‌Michigan. Now, with Greg Roman as Herbert’s offensive coordinator—who has seen his⁣ offenses rank 27th or lower in⁢ passing⁢ during eight ‍of his ten ‌seasons

Catching fire has become a notable topic, and for good ‌reason! It has been 55 years since the Cuyahoga River ⁣famously ​ignited. A more pertinent comparison to a Cleveland fire‌ is how Deshaun Watson’s contract appears to be akin to burning $230 million.‌ In his two seasons with Cleveland, Watson has participated in just 11 games, averaging a mere 15.8 ⁤PPG. Since joining the Browns, he ranks 36th in yards per attempt (6.5) and is ⁢35th in off-target‌ rate (13.8%). ⁣He has‌ yet ‌to throw for 300 passing yards in any game with ⁢the‌ Browns, and he has posted fewer than 240 yards in 83% of his appearances. Furthermore, ⁢he has one⁢ touchdown ‍pass or less in 67% of​ his games in‌ Cleveland. Additionally, since the 2020 season, Watson has not played⁣ more ⁣than⁤ six games in a season due to suspensions‌ or injuries. Feel ‌free to draft‍ Watson if you choose,⁢ but it seems like‍ you might just be setting your fantasy team ablaze before‍ the ⁤season ⁤even begins.

Running ‍Backs I Love in 2024

Derrick Henry, Baltimore Ravens

(My Rank: RB7 – Yahoo ADP​ RB7)

Last season, the Baltimore Ravens featured a four-headed⁤ running ‌back ‍duo comprising Gus Edwards, Justice Hill, Keaton Mitchell, and​ the remains of Melvin Gordon,⁣ which collectively achieved 1,696 rushing yards, 20 ‍rushing touchdowns, and an impressive 4.7 YPC. These statistics are ‍certainly notable. However, what is Derrick Henry if not like having four ⁢running backs combined into one? He barrels down the field,‍ boasting greater⁢ size, strength, and speed than all of them together. Naturally, those impressive stats won’t simply transfer​ over to Henry’s ‌totals immediately. With Hill and Mitchell still on the roster, the Ravens didn’t⁢ sign DERRICK HENRY to share time with them. This is a player who has led ‌the NFL in rushing attempts for four of the past ​five seasons, posting‌ nine games with over 18 fantasy points in 2023 alone—only ⁢trailing Christian McCaffrey ⁢among running ⁣backs. Henry has recorded six consecutive ⁣seasons with over 1,000 scrimmage yards and 10 or more touchdowns, accumulating 68 rushing touchdowns in his last ⁤72 games played. He accomplished this even‍ while playing for a team that has consistently​ ranked ⁢in the bottom three in the NFL for yards per ⁤carry before contact in⁤ the last two seasons. Now, he joins a Ravens offensive line⁤ that has⁢ led the NFL in yards per carry before contact over the same period. The Ravens’ offense has seen their ⁢running ‌backs average a league-high 4.8 YPC⁣ since Lamar​ Jackson took over as starter in 2019. I’m securing ‌the fantasy powerhouse that is Derrick Henry for as many teams as possible this ‍year, and the best part is, he only requires one roster ⁢spot ​rather⁣ than four.

Isiah Pacheco,‌ Kansas ⁢City Chiefs

(My Rank: RB8 –⁢ Yahoo ADP‍ RB9)

Throughout the offseason, Pacheco ‌remained on ⁣the short list for this​ year’s “Ride or Die.” It’s easy to see why, particularly because‌ he ⁤runs with a fierce determination. Isiah Pacheco was among only ‍11 running backs last⁤ season to achieve 200 or more rushes alongside 40⁤ receptions. He ranked‍ in the top 10 for team rush attempts and accounted for 68% ⁣of Kansas City’s red zone rushes, which was tied for fifth-most in the league. ​But the most compelling ⁤reason for my enthusiasm about Pacheco this ‍season ⁢is his performance when ‌Jerick⁢ McKinnon was absent. ​Including playoff games, he ⁢averaged ⁣19.9 PPG over the seven contests where McKinnon was out⁤ of uniform. His usage during those games reinforces that production: ​he averaged 21.4 touches, posted a 73% snap ⁣rate, and had an 11.7% target share. This is particularly significant‍ as Jerick McKinnon remains unsigned, and a return to⁣ the Chiefs seems unlikely. ‌As the 2023⁣ season unfolded, it ‌became ⁣increasingly evident that ⁢the Chiefs had full confidence⁤ in the talented and​ hard-running ⁤Pacheco as their lead ⁢back for⁤ all three downs. With the 2024 offseason progressing, this‍ sentiment has ‌only ‍become clearer. Currently, the running backs behind Pacheco on the Chiefs’ depth chart include Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Deneric Prince, rookie⁤ Carson Steele, and Keontay Ingram. Remember that <a class="Link"⁢ href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.instagram.com/betr/p/C3VuH0VRvYG/?img_index=2__;!!PIZ“`html
goat Pacheco made his way through‍ the crowd during the⁤ Super Bowl‌ parade in Kansas City back in February. It could be argued that the goat ranks as the second-best⁣ running​ back in Kansas City​ at this ⁤moment.⁤ After all,⁣ he does​ have some positive highlights.

De’Von Achane,‌ Miami Dolphins

(My Rank: RB11 – Yahoo ADP⁣ RB11)

Last ⁣season, De’Von Achane topped all running backs with fantasy points per touch. In the eight games⁣ where he ⁢received⁢ 10 or more touches, he averaged⁤ 22.9 points⁣ per game. A remarkable 21% of his carries resulted in gains of over 10 yards, ‍placing him third among running backs in‍ avoided tackles. Over nine games ​with 20 or more snaps, ⁣he averaged 2.6 red zone touches and had ​a double-digit target share in⁤ six of those ⁣games. Moreover, he set the NFL record for⁣ the highest yards⁢ per carry (7.8) by a running back in a season with ​at least 100 touches. I’m skipping any overly elaborate language in my‌ analysis of Achane. No attempted humor here; ‍I aim to ⁤be‌ as straightforward with ⁤my words as Achane is with the ball. Ensure you draft this guy for your fantasy team.

Joe Mixon, Houston Texans

(My Rank: RB12 – Yahoo ADP RB13)

Despite the attention C.J. ⁤Stroud received during ​his rookie season, which was well-deserved, there⁢ is a widespread ​assumption that the⁢ Texans favor a pass-heavy approach. However,‍ this ​is a misconception.⁣ Last season, Houston⁢ ranked in the top‍ 12 for running back ⁣carries, and from Week 9 onwards, ⁣Devin Singletary averaged 19 touches per game. Now, the Texans have acquired a running back who is undoubtedly more⁤ skilled than Devin‌ Singletary: ‍Joe Mixon. Coming off a season where he joined only⁢ four other ⁣backs with ⁤250 carries⁣ and 50 receptions, Mixon led all running backs in goal-line attempts. He delivered‍ eight games with at least ⁤15 ‍fantasy points‌ and​ five ⁣games with over 20.⁤ Will ⁤he be efficient? Likely ⁤not.‌ However,⁤ he is guaranteed to⁤ receive ample⁢ volume ​within one of the top offenses in the league. Keep in mind, Mixon has enjoyed an ⁤average of at least 18 touches ⁤per game⁢ for six consecutive seasons. While he may not elicit‌ excitement in your draft, he offers affordable, consistent volume that will be quite fruitful at his ADP. With only Dameon Pierce and Dare Ogunbowale behind him on the depth chart, I relish the thought of securing Mixon’s RB2‌ production in ⁤the fourth round or⁤ later.

James Cook,⁣ Buffalo Bills

(My Rank: RB13 – Yahoo ADP RB15)

James Cook had⁣ a significant breakout last season. His 33 rushes of 10 or more​ yards‍ ranked‌ second only ⁣to Christian McCaffrey, and he led all running‌ backs (with a minimum⁤ of 50 targets) with 8.2 yards per ⁢target. ⁤Cook truly excelled after Joe Brady assumed the role of offensive coordinator for Buffalo in ​Week 11. From that point through the season’s end, Cook ranked as RB11 ⁤in points per ⁢game. During that span, he averaged 19.6 touches and maintained‍ a 12% target share. Furthermore, after Brady’s ⁤promotion to OC, the Bills finished second in running ‌back carries per game.​ Brady‌ has confidence in Cook, and‍ Cook delivers results. Honestly, it’s refreshing to hear the names “Brady” and “Cook”⁢ associated positively again ⁤without immediately thinking ​about ⁢the TB12 diet. Healthy food‌ at every meal? ⁣No, thanks.

James ​Conner,⁤ Arizona Cardinals

(My Rank: RB18 – ⁢Yahoo ADP RB20)

Every season, we attempt to ​move beyond James Conner​ in ⁢search of the next big thing… and yet, year after year, Conner remains relevant in fantasy football. In fact, last ⁣season Conner not only stayed relevant but also achieved⁤ his first NFL season with ​1,000⁢ rushing yards. He also ranked​ fourth among all running ‌backs ​in scrimmage yards per game (92).
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Not only does ​Conner possess longevity in ⁢fantasy ⁤football, but ‌he also showcases power while⁢ carrying the ball. ⁢Last season, he ranked second in yards ‌after contact per attempt ⁣(3.9) and was also ​second in ‌the highest avoided tackle rate (28.8%). Throughout his three seasons in Arizona, he has consistently finished as a top 15 running back ⁣in points ⁢per game (PPG). ⁣Additionally, during that period, he is among only​ four running backs in⁤ the league to achieve over 1,000 scrimmage⁤ yards​ and eight or more touchdowns each season. James Conner ‌is here to ​stay,⁤ making him‍ a solid ‍option as the RB2 on ‍your fantasy roster.

Others receiving votes:‌ A prevailing theme of Saints ​training ‌camp has been ⁢head coach Dennis Allen’s frustrations regarding Kendre Miller’s‌ injuries. If Allen had a⁤ Hate⁢ List, ​Miller would undoubtedly top it. Given that Jamaal Williams averaged just 2.9 yards per carry last season, he might also find himself⁣ on that list. However, Alvin Kamara? He’s ‌safe ⁣from that fate.⁣ Last season, Kamara topped all running backs in target ⁣share and​ receptions per game, averaging ‍19.6 touches ⁤per game. With ⁢Miller and Williams providing ‍backup, I​ don’t anticipate a‌ decrease in his⁤ usage anytime soon. … The Steelers are fond of having pairs​ at each⁤ position, like Russell Wilson ⁢and Justin Fields ⁢or⁣ Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren. ​Among these‌ combinations, I favor Harris⁤ and Warren the​ most. Under ⁣Arthur Smith, the Falcons⁣ had over 500 running back touches in each of the last two seasons and ranked⁢ top three⁣ in rushing attempts in three of the past four years. Consequently,⁣ Harris⁢ and Warren are set for significant‌ usage. The ‍Steelers ⁤have also made efforts to improve their offensive line,‌ and Harris is coming off ‌what many consider his best professional season, while Warren ranked​ seventh in fantasy points per touch among running backs in⁣ 2023.​ (I’m ⁣not‍ concerned about Warren’s injury, by the way).⁣ … During ​Kliff Kingsbury’s time​ as Arizona’s head coach, the Cardinals were‌ among the top eight teams in red zone rush rates.‌ Kenyan Drake led ‌the league‌ in goal-to-go carries in‍ 2020, while James Conner was second in ⁤2021. This is promising ⁢for Kingsbury’s ⁣new lead back, ‌ Brian Robinson, who averaged 17.7 PPG last season over ‍games​ in which he received ‌at ⁣least⁢ 14 touches. I’m excited about Robinson this​ year, anticipating that Austin ⁤Ekeler will take on a role ​similar to “Chase Edmonds in Arizona under Kliff,”‌ with Robinson serving as the Conner-like primary back. … Back⁣ in December, ‌ Tony Pollard stated that he ​didn’t feel completely recovered from⁤ the fractured fibula he sustained ‍during the 2022-23 playoffs until after Dallas’ Week 7 bye. The statistics support this claim: prior to the bye, Pollard ‌had ⁤the second-lowest avoided ⁣tackle rate, ​while after ‍ the bye, he boasted the third-highest. He is poised for a bounce-back season in Tennessee. …⁢ The Titans now have two fantasy-relevant ‌backs⁢ in Pollard and Tyjae Spears. Last season,‍ Spears averaged 14.8 PPG in four games where he had over 11 touches and ‌maintained a double-digit‌ target share in 14 of his 17 games. … The Carolina ⁣Panthers selected ⁢ Jonathon Brooks as the first running back in the draft, and head coach‌ Dave Canales highlighted Brooks’s versatility as a standout⁤ quality. Given that ⁣Tampa Bay ranked in the ⁢top ten for running back receiving yards under Canales, combined with Brooks’s effectiveness out of the backfield at Texas, there’s much ⁢to be eager about. … With⁣ Joe ⁣Mixon’s exit, 309 touches have opened up⁢ in the Cincinnati ⁤backfield, and Chase Brown ‌ has been receiving the majority of first-team reps during camp. …⁢ As a ‌Commanders fan, I have my reservations about ‍the Cowboys, but ⁣I also recognize that if you opt to wait on ⁢early running backs⁤ while seeking value, Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle could prove ⁤to be a ⁤productive duo this season. Dallas averaged 26.6 running back touches in 2023, and Pollard’s departure left​ behind 307 touches. During Elliott’s short stint with ‌the Patriots last season, ‌he ranked as the RB9 ‌in PPG from Weeks 14 to 18, and Dowdle‌ managed over 12 fantasy points in ⁣three of his four games with at‌ least⁢ ten touches. …⁤ Kyren​ Williams has missed 12

the performances of various games over the last two​ seasons. This ⁤is a significant factor in why the Rams ​chose to draft Blake Corum, who led the FBS in 2023 with an impressive 27 rushing touchdowns. Reports emerging from Jets camp ‍indicate that Braelon⁢ Allen is the clear leader⁣ for the RB2 position‍ behind Breece Hall. This situation positions Allen as a reliable insurance option, and being only 20 years ‍old,⁤ he represents an ⁣excellent dynasty stash.​ … Given what ⁣we’ve seen from Daniel Jones, it’s hard ⁢not to have confidence in every ‍Giants running back, right? The Giants surely ​can’t let Jones throw ⁤the‌ ball, can they? Anyway, Devin Singletary is the only player ⁣currently ⁤ahead of Tyrone Tracy on the depth chart,​ while the two running backs behind Tracy have a mere 27 ⁤combined career touches. … Amid⁢ yelling at Russell Wilson⁢ during the last season, Sean Payton managed to ​involve three Denver running backs in over 100 touches each. Jaleel McLaughlin stood ​out as the most efficient and explosive among the trio and is expected to have an even greater role‌ in 2024.

Running‍ Backs I Dislike in 2024

Rachaad White, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

(My ⁤Rank: 52​ Overall (RB15) – ⁣Yahoo‌ ADP: 38.3)

In fantasy ⁤football, ​if volume is king,‌ then efficiency is certainly ​the prince. Players ‍like Christian McCaffrey possess both volume and efficiency, earning⁤ them‍ a royal place in fantasy. Conversely, players such as ‌Rachaad White have⁢ volume but‌ lack efficiency, thus⁣ landing them ⁢on the‌ Hate List. (Think ‍of it as the dungeon of fantasy, if you will.)‌ Although White’s 336 touches⁤ last season positioned him second only to McCaffrey’s 339, his 3.6 YPC ranked‍ 36th out of 44 qualified backs. Additionally, his 2.5 YAC/attempt​ was 42nd among 49 backs⁢ with at ⁤least 100 carries, and​ he recorded the seventh-lowest ‍success rate among qualified backs. This performance is a significant reason the Bucs finished with the fewest rushing yards in the NFL last season. With⁤ offensive coordinator Dave Canales (“We’re running no matter what!”) moving to⁤ Carolina and ‌positive camp ‌reports about Bucky Irving, I am concerned about White maintaining the same volume as last year. Currently, the‍ only argument in⁢ favor of White is his massive volume.⁤ Therefore, despite finishing ⁢as ⁢RB4 overall⁤ last season, I only rank him as my RB15 as we head into 2024.

Rhamondre Stevenson, New England Patriots

(My Rank: 78 Overall (RB22) – Yahoo ADP: 64.0)

In the last ‍two seasons, 45% of Rhamondre Stevenson’s fantasy points have been generated⁢ through receiving. That’s fantastic!‍ However, what’s less than fantastic is the Patriots ​signing pass-catching RB Antonio ⁤Gibson during the offseason. Compounding this, PFF has ranked the Patriots’ offensive line⁣ 28th ‌heading into 2024. Adding to the concerns, Stevenson experienced career lows last season in yards per carry (YPC), ⁤yards per target,⁣ and catch rate. Even​ more troubling? Only 6% of Stevenson’s rushes ‌achieved ⁢gains⁢ of 10 ⁤or more yards, landing fifth-lowest among backs with 150 carries. All of these not-so-great points contribute⁣ to ​the Hate.

D’Andre⁣ Swift, ⁢Chicago Bears

(My Rank: 84 Overall (RB24) – Yahoo ADP: 74.9)

Among‌ qualified running backs last ​season, D’Andre ‍Swift ranked 42nd in​ fantasy points per touch. His 2.4 YAC/rush was the‍ fifth⁣ lowest⁣ among backs⁣ with over 100⁣ rushes. He was also limited to just 34%⁢ of the team’s red​ zone carries, ranking 33rd among qualified backs. Moreover, he recorded a career-low target share. Now, he enters a crowded backfield alongside ⁣Khalil⁢ Herbert and Roschon Johnson on a team where three different backs received over 110 touches‍ in 2023.⁤ The potential ⁤upside for Bears fans? ⁣Um ⁢… a consistently unproductive Swift might lead to more opportunities for ​Caleb Williams to throw the ball,⁢ which could be entertaining? Let’s go with that.

Zamir White, Las Vegas Raiders

(My Rank: 91 Overall (RB27) – Yahoo ADP: ‍70.6)

Last season, White ranked 53rd among qualified backs in⁢ fantasy points per touch.⁣ His career target share stands at a mere 2%, with just 15 ⁤receptions across ‌31 career games. But that is all behind us.‍ My concerns lie in⁤ the…

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present​ and future. Throughout the preseason, Alexander Mattison has been ‍taking‍ snaps with the starting unit ⁣and ‍has outperformed White on passing downs. This indicates that ‍White may find himself ⁣in an early-down committee role on a subpar offense, a profile that typically⁣ does⁤ not generate fantasy points. While he is likely to start the season as the primary back, there is just‍ as much ⁣chance that ‍he could end ⁤the ‌season sitting on your fantasy bench.

Pass Catchers‍ I Love in 2024

Justin Jefferson, Minnesota Vikings

(My Rank: 4 Overall – Yahoo ADP: 7.2)

Before you shout “obvious” at me, or on your preferred message​ board, please recognize that this ⁢is specifically about the first round. Currently, Jefferson ⁢is being drafted outside the top seven picks on​ both‌ Yahoo and ESPN, yet I have him as‍ a top four player overall. In the first round, every ‍selection is critical—this⁢ creates a significant disparity. The only argument against​ Jefferson‌ tends to ‍be Sam Darnold, but ⁢I contend that ⁢Darnold is at ‌least comparable to​ Nick Mullens.‍ Remarkably, in ⁣the four full games Justin Jefferson ​played without Kirk ‍Cousins last season—where Mullens​ took over​ almost entirely—Jefferson STILL averaged 22.1 PPG. Throughout Jefferson’s eight healthy games in 2023,‍ he recorded an average of 127 yards per game with a ⁣31% target share. Over his career, he ⁢averages 98.3 receiving⁣ yards per⁣ game—the⁢ highest in NFL history—and has surpassed 105 receiving yards in ⁤each of the last two seasons.⁤ Justin Jefferson⁢ is extraordinary. It’s almost⁣ as if he​ could achieve impressive stats with a JUGS machine at quarterback. I am‍ fully committed ⁢to‌ selecting‌ Justin Jefferson this season as a top ‌5 overall pick, and I​ believe you ⁢should be‍ too.

Drake London, Atlanta Falcons

(My Rank: WR10 – Yahoo ADP⁢ WR13)

While Drake ​London may not yet ​reach the heights of Justin Jefferson,‍ that won’t ⁣deter Kirk Cousins from aiming to elevate his performance. In five of ⁤Cousins’⁣ six seasons in Minnesota, he supported a top ⁤10 wide receiver. London, boasting a 26%‌ target share throughout his career‍ and capturing 32% of Atlanta’s red zone targets over the last‌ two seasons (ranking sixth among WRs), is clearly the⁤ WR1 for‍ Atlanta. Furthermore, we cannot overlook the Zac Robinson factor. Atlanta’s new offensive coordinator previously ​worked ​with the Rams from 2019-2023,​ during ‍which the ⁣Rams ranked⁣ second in WR target ​share and fourth in WR fantasy points. (Shout out to my favorite, Cooper Kupp!) London was ⁣very close ⁤to being this year’s Fantasy “Ride or Die,” and while I opted for someone⁣ else, he⁣ is primed for a breakout year.

Chris Olave, New Orleans Saints

(My Rank: 19 Overall ⁣(WR12) – Yahoo ADP:⁣ 27.1)

O-LAV-VEY or⁤ … O-LOVE, EH?​ You could​ potentially‍ defend⁤ either pronunciation, especially if you’re ‍well ‌into a⁣ lengthy‌ discussion and feeling ⁣less particular about “jokes.” However, one thing that’s no laughing matter is the ongoing rise⁣ of young Chris Olave. Two seasons ago, as a rookie, Olave finished as WR26 in fantasy, and last season improved to WR19. ⁣If he continues on this trajectory, he should​ land around my projection of WR12 for 2024.‍ There are plenty of reasons to anticipate his further growth ‍this season. Olave has maintained a target share above 25%⁤ in⁢ each ⁣of his NFL seasons,⁢ averaging 16.1 PPG ‍in ⁢his 19 games with seven or more targets, and​ last season ranked top 5 in deep targets while also being in the top 10⁢ for slot ​targets. The metrics around ‌his usage and efficiency are ⁣promising. Additionally,⁢ Olave will be‍ utilized in ⁣a Klint Kubiak offense, which is likely to introduce some of San Francisco’s pre-snap motion elements to New ⁢Orleans. I view Olave as straddling the ​line between low-end WR1 and⁢ high-end WR2.

Cooper Kupp, Los Angeles Rams

(My Rank: 29 Overall (WR18) – Yahoo ADP: 34.9)

Cooper Kupp <a‌ class="Link"
“`href=”https://finance.yahoo.com/news/cooper-kupp-wants-change-coffee-140000794.html” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>launched a coffee company this offseason. Indeed, I can now enjoy Cooper Kupp’s coffee from my own⁣ little Cooper‌ Kupp. ⁢This is incredibly exciting. ​However, the thrill doesn’t stop there. Kupp is back to full health ⁢and is set to regain his remarkable form. ‌In his 11 healthy appearances last season, ⁢he commanded a 27% target share. Notably, he had the same ‌number of targets as Puka Nacua during those‌ games. This indicates that while ⁢Nacua’s presence impacts Kupp somewhat, Kupp remains a‌ pivotal part of the ⁢Rams’ offense. ⁤By‌ the way,‍ the Rams led ‌the league in wide receiver ⁢target share last‍ season. During his healthy games, Kupp also accounted for 37% of the Rams’​ red ‍zone targets‌ and ranked fourth among​ all WRs with an average of 1.5 red zone targets per game. In the 11 healthy games where⁢ both Kupp ⁣and Nacua played, Nacua averaged 15.5 targets while Kupp⁣ trailed slightly with 14.8. Despite this, Kupp is being ​drafted two to three rounds later, and reports from training ‌camp suggest that Kupp, not Nacua, has emerged as the WR1 for‌ the ‍Rams so far. So yes, just as I enjoy my Cooper ⁤Kupp⁢ coffee ‍each‌ morning,‌ he can ⁣still provide a boost to your fantasy team.

Malik Nabers, New‌ York​ Giants

(My Rank: WR19 – Yahoo ADP ‍WR26)

He is quickly becoming the favorite among rookies for fantasy​ teams named after him (Won’t you be my ‌Nabers? Don’t covet‍ your Nabers ___, etc.), and he should also be a ⁢highly ‌sought-after draft ​pick ⁣for managers. The Giants notably lacked a ​single player with over 80 targets ​last season. Thus, it comes as no surprise that New York utilized the No. 6 overall pick to bring in the exceptionally talented Nabers as ⁢their WR1. ​I believe he is⁤ quarterback-proof, ​and any inefficiency from his QB will likely⁤ be compensated by significant volume. Since 2018, ​every wide receiver drafted in the top ⁣10 has amassed⁢ over ‌100 targets in their rookie season,‍ with three of them finishing ⁣as top 24 wide receivers in total points (Ja’Marr Chase, Jaylen Waddle, and Garrett​ Wilson). Keep an eye out ⁣for Nabers to join that list this year. In fact, anticipate Nabers to excel alongside them. (Apologies⁢ for‌ the pun.)

Rashee Rice, Kansas City Chiefs

(My Rank: WR25 – Yahoo ADP WR34)

Rashee Rice exudes numerous qualities that make him an appealing football player. Last season, over his final six games, he ranked as WR8 in⁢ points⁤ per game, averaging 18.5.⁢ During that ​span, he enjoyed a 27.3% target share and‍ caught an average of 7.2 ⁣passes per game. His 77% catch rate was​ the highest among ‍WRs with 50⁢ or more targets. Furthermore, he placed​ in the ‌top 10 for WRs in both fantasy points per target and yards per⁢ route run. One downside to his rookie season, however, was his tumultuous offseason,⁤ which may potentially lead to a suspension. Additionally, any disciplinary measures could‌ extend into next year.⁣ Nevertheless, if you can account for a few weeks when Rice might not be available this season, his contributions will significantly enhance your team when he is ​on​ the field.

Trey McBride, Arizona Cardinals

(My Rank: TE3 – Yahoo‍ ADP TE3)

This season, many in fantasy circles are choosing to overlook Trey McBride after his breakout 2023, and I fully support this strategy. It simply means more ​Trey ‍McBride ⁣shares ​for me. While McBride excelled ​last season, his⁢ performance peaked when Kyler Murray was on ⁤the ‍field. ​As you may already know, Kyler ‍Murray is back to full ‍health.⁤ Consider this: here is how ​McBride‍ ranked‍ among tight ⁤ends after ​Murray’s return in⁢ Week 10:

· TE3 ⁤in ‍points ​per game (14.9)

· 1st in target ‍share (25.2%)

· 2nd in receptions per⁣ game (6.6)

· 4th‍ in⁢ receiving yards ​per⁤ game⁤ (67.3)

Notably, this isn’t based ‍on a small sample size.

That’s‌ a wealth of‍ information ‌from eight games. Don’t overanalyze, particularly when you have the opportunity to secure an ​elite tight‍ end. Trey McBride is the real deal and absolutely outstanding.

Jake Ferguson, Dallas ⁢Cowboys

(My Rank: TE8 ‌– Yahoo ADP TE9)

Last season, Jake Ferguson was among​ only seven‌ tight ends to ‌surpass 100 targets, making‌ him one of just two players from ​the Cowboys to achieve‌ this, along​ with CeeDee Lamb. ‍With ‌both Tony Pollard and Michael Gallup having ​departed, accounting for 124 targets, Ferguson’s involvement in the offense could even increase in ⁣2024. The Cowboys‍ truly value him.‍ He topped tight ends in red zone targets and⁢ was tied for⁢ second in end zone opportunities. Furthermore, he ranked⁤ among the top⁤ three in routes run at his ​position. ⁤Still skeptical? Consider this: Before each game, Ferguson consumes pickle ​juice, orange ‌Gatorade, and beet juice.​ Alright, maybe that⁣ weakens ⁢my argument a bit. I should have focused solely on the stats. In any case, Ferguson is a top 10 tight end for me, who could⁤ easily break into the top 5 given more ⁣opportunities and⁣ some favorable touchdown luck.

Others ⁢under⁤ consideration: Tank Dell had a 21.5% target share​ in the games he played healthy last season, which increased to 28.5% during ⁢the last four weeks before ⁢his injury. And⁢ justifiably so; Dell is ⁢a playmaker. He recorded an average of 23.4⁣ PPG in his six games with ⁣seven or more targets, and his 14.3 aDOT last season ‍ranked in the top 5⁢ among all wide ⁤receivers. Even though I don’t think C.J. Stroud justifies his current ADP, he remains a fantastic quarterback, and all three of ‌Houston’s wide receivers are expected to thrive this year. Therefore, I’m betting on ⁢Stroud’s‍ best friend, who is the least expensive of the trio… Over two ‍seasons in Jacksonville, Christian Kirk ranks WR27 in PPG (13.5) and⁣ has maintained an average of over 65 receiving yards per game in both years. I appreciate his solid floor. … In July, Dave Canales suggested that the Panthers will structure their offense ‍around Diontae⁤ Johnson. Regardless ⁣of your opinion on the Panthers’ potential, I am happy to take ⁤a player that an NFL ‍team​ intends to build its offense around in the middle rounds. Don’t overlook that the Panthers were ⁤in the ​top 10 for wide receiver target share last season, while Canales’⁤ unit in Tampa Bay ⁤ranked second. … Xavier Worthy posted a⁢ Combine-record 4.21 40-yard dash. Essentially, that’s comparable ‍to Noah Lyles-type speed. Patrick Mahomes has demonstrated success with speedy receivers (see: Hill, Tyreek). Additionally, Andy⁢ Reid developed a ‍WR21 ‌(in PPG) season⁢ with Hill as a rookie​ and a WR35 season with ‍DeSean ​Jackson as ⁢a rookie. ‍In other words, passing on a receiver‍ who possesses Noah Lyles’ speed would be akin to dancing offbeat ​like RayGun. ⁤… Although DeAndre Hopkins may not ‌fit ‌within the top 10 WRs anymore, his productivity remains ⁣impressive. Believe it or not, last season saw Hopkins reach a ⁣career-high aDOT of 14.1. ​He ‌also⁤ accounted for 45% of Tennessee’s end zone targets and 36%‌ of ⁣their red zone‌ targets.‍ As a fantasy analyst, those statistics‍ are enticing. DeAndre knows⁤ what I mean. … Jameson Williams has been having a dazzling training camp for the Lions,⁢ and his role had already​ expanded to⁢ a snap‌ rate exceeding 70% in two of ⁤Detroit’s three ‍playoff games. With Josh Reynolds ⁤gone, there are now 64 targets‍ and a 71% snap rate​ available in the ​offense. The ⁣breakout season the Lions have eagerly anticipated could finally be upon us. … Consider this: Josh Palmer…b>is the ONLY wide receiver on⁤ the Chargers roster with at least⁤ 40 career receptions from Justin Herbert. So yeah, maybe not​ quite ⁣the familiarity of Peyton Manning and Marvin Harrison, but it’s something. Palmer, by the ‌way, has averaged 14.4‌ PPG in his 16 career games with seven-plus targets. … In 2020, Curtis Samuel ‍ had his career-best season (and finished as WR27 in PPG) ‌while a member of the Panthers. His offensive coordinator that season? Joe Brady. His⁤ offensive coordinator this season in Buffalo? Joe Brady! Yay! Now, he needs ⁣to get healthy. By​ the ⁤way, last season Samuel was top 10 in slot targets, ​and ‌now he’s‌ joining a Bills team that ranked fourth in slot targets in⁤ 2023. … I like ‌the upside of Greg Dortch ⁣this season paired with a healthy Kyler Murray.⁢ In Dortch’s 10 career games with a ⁣snap ⁤rate above 70%, he averages 14.6 PPG​ and has a 20.7% target share. I guess my⁢ point is: ⁢In 2024,‍ you can do worse than making your ‌fantasy team‌ name ‌Olympic Dortch.⁤ Or The Human Dortch. (You ​can also do way better. Way, way better.) …⁤ Last ‍season the Rams ⁣used 11⁤ personnel⁤ (i.e. 3 WRs) ⁢on⁤ a league-high ⁤95% of their plays. That means‍ the Rams’​ WR3 DeMarcus Robinson (and ​keep an eye on ⁣rookie Jordan Whittington!) has some week-to-week fantasy viability. But⁤ he’ll be especially useful if Nacua or Kupp (no!) miss any time. … I ⁤wish my Commanders had Christian McCaffrey, but I ‍will happily take my consolation prize of Luke McCaffrey. During ‌Kliff Kingsbury’s Arizona ⁣tenure, the Cardinals ranked second ​in‍ slot targets and McCaffrey’s specialty ⁣is working out of the ​slot. Also, Jahan Dotson has⁤ had a tough camp. … ⁢The Steelers not having much in the⁣ way of a WR2 is‍ bad for the Steelers, but‍ very good for Pat ⁣Freiermuth managers. Freiermuth had 42%⁤ of Pittsburgh’s end zone targets last season, tops among ‌all tight ends.​ Arthur Smith offenses‌ have finished top 5 in TE target share​ in four of his five seasons as a head coach or offensive coordinator. … Noah Fant has had a snap rate above 70% just twice in his career, 2020 and 2021. He⁢ was TE13⁢ in⁣ PPG ⁢over that timeframe. With Colby Parkinson ‌and Will Dissly out of the picture⁢ in Seattle, Fant’s playing time – and production – should⁣ spike again.⁣ … ⁢If Taysom Hill is TE ‍eligible in your leagues, read​ this. If he’s not, skip ahead to the next write up, okay? Go. SCRAM! GET LOST! Okay, it’s just us now. Last ⁣season, in Hill’s eight games with 10-plus touches, he averaged 14.5 PPG and his seven games with double-digit points ranked top 10 at the​ position. He also‍ posted‌ career ⁤highs⁣ in targets‍ (40),‌ receptions (33) and receiving yards ⁣(291). And the running ability is obviously always ⁣there. Okay, everyone​ else ⁣can come back now and continue reading. …‌ When Mark Andrews was⁣ injured from⁢ Weeks‍ 12-18 last season, Isaiah Likely was ‍TE5 in⁣ PPG (13.9), saw ‍25%​ of Baltimore’s red zone⁣ targets and caught five‌ touchdowns. ⁢And word out of Ravens camp ‍is that Likely⁢ will see the field ​a lot more this season, regardless of Andrews’ health. And obviously, if‍ anything happened⁤ to⁣ Andrews you’ll ​wish you had Likely stashed on your bench. … Speaking of a tight end with injury concerns: Zach Ertz. Since 2014, his target share has never been below 18%. He is now reunited​ in Washington with Kliff Kingsbury and remember when the⁢ two were⁣ together in Arizona from 2021-2022, Ertz was ⁤the⁢ TE6 in PPG. And hey, if(/when?) ⁤Ertz does get injured,​ Washington didn’t spend a second-round pick on Ben Sinnott for nothing. The⁢ rookie would⁢ quickly step into Ertz’s job.

Pass ⁣Catchers I Hate in 2024

George Pickens,⁣ Pittsburgh ‍Steelers

(My Rank: WR32 – Yahoo ADP WR28)

There’s a lot to Hate about George Pickens’ fantasy prospects heading into 2024. Last season, a⁤ full THIRTY PERCENT of his fantasy ⁤points came in just two‌ games.⁤ He⁣ had less than‌ 50 receiving yards⁢ in 53% of his games and single-digit fantasy ‍points in 59% of his ⁢games.‌ Then there’s the Arthur Smith⁤ factor. Don’t ‍forget: Drake‍ London never finished as a top 40 WR in PPG ‌under Smith. So yeah, it’s bad. Quite bad. And‌ this is without mentioning the possible​ looming acquisition of Brandon⁣ Aiyuk,⁤ which would push Pickens ⁢down to Pittsburgh’s WR2. I already have him way down at ‍WR32.

Christian Watson, Green Bay Packers

(My Rank: WR42 – Yahoo ADP WR42)

Christian Watson’s catch rate last season was just 53%, sixth-lowest ⁤among‌ players with 50-plus targets. That means that if you toss a football at Christian Watson, it’s essentially a coin toss that he comes down ‌with ​it. Not ideal. Last season, Watson put‌ up less than‍ seven fantasy⁤ points ​in 44% of his games ⁤and, for his ⁤career, he⁢ has less than 12 fantasy points in 70% of his games.⁤ Oh,⁢ and he’s also injury prone, having missed 11 games over the past two seasons. The Packers are going ‍to have a ‍wide⁤ receiver by committee this year and barring ⁣injury ⁣to ⁢one of them it’s going to ⁣be hard to count on ⁢any of them for consistent fantasy production.‌ So in case⁢ you‍ didn’t‍ figure it out, Christian Watson is on my Hate List.‍ You know, if the large HATE heading a half-scroll up didn’t tip you off to this big reveal.

Jordan Addison, Minnesota Vikings

(My Rank:⁣ WR48 – Yahoo ADP⁣ WR41)

Jordan Addison is a huge⁣ negative‍ regression⁣ candidate in 2024. He scored 10 ⁣touchdowns last⁤ season on just 15 red zone targets. He also averaged a⁣ measly 6.8 ⁤PPG in‍ his‌ nine‌ games without a score, averaging just 34⁣ receiving yards ⁤per game in those contests. Addison – ⁢unlike Justin Jefferson – also fell way off without Kirk Cousins. In the ⁣nine games without⁣ Cousins, Addison ​was⁤ WR43 in PPG⁢ (10.5). But ⁢at least he was ‍scoring some ‍ fantasy points ‌over ⁢that time. He won’t be scoring any fantasy ⁣points⁤ if⁢ he gets suspended for his July DUI arrest.

Courtland Sutton, Denver Broncos

(My Rank: WR50 ‌– Yahoo ADP ‍WR45)

In Courtland Sutton’s six NFL seasons,⁢ only once has he averaged more than 11.9 PPG … ‌and ⁢that was ⁣a relatively pedestrian ‌13.9 PPG output ​back in 2020. Last season he put up career lows in ⁤aDOT and ⁢deep targets, and he posted‍ only four games⁢ with more than 70 receiving yards. But look, I really don’t ​like being negative. Honest. So here’s a positive: Last season Sutton scored 10 touchdowns …‍ and ⁢still finished ‌way⁤ down at WR38 in PPG. That’s very hard to⁢ do! I’m honestly impressed.

Brock Bowers, ‌Las Vegas Raiders

(My Rank: ‌TE12 – Yahoo ‍ADP TE12)

Brock Bowers couldn’t have landed in⁤ a worse spot. Bad⁢ offense,‌ a bad offense that ‍doesn’t ​throw the ball⁤ much (Vegas ranked 22nd in⁣ pass ​rate after Antonio Pierce took over the job), a transitional⁤ quarterback, a⁢ fellow young tight end in Michael Mayer to compete ‌with for playing time, and a superstar receiver in Davante Adams‌ who is‌ sure to get‍ the bulk of the targets. Despite all the talent, Brock Bowers ​is a Hate for me. But ​hey, it’s Vegas. At least⁤ it’s a​ dry Hate.

Dalton Schultz,⁢ Houston Texans

(My Rank: TE14 – Yahoo ADP TE13)

Dalton Schultz is a nice player, but he still has just one season in his entire career with⁣ 90-plus targets (2021). How much upside do you really think ⁤he has ⁤in a⁢ balanced Houston offense in which he’ll be the fourth option in the passing game⁤ behind Stefon Diggs, Nico ‌Collins and Tank Dell? And heck, depending on the⁣ week, behind Joe Mixon, too? Schultz’s snap rate‍ last season (73%) was also the lowest of​ his career. Sorry, I’

I’m not criticizing Dalton, but he’s certainly a ‘Hate.’ (Well, 7,000 words into this⁢ piece, ‌you’re ⁣getting ⁤the jokes and the forced​ wordplay as they come. No​ refunds.)

Cole Kmet, Chicago Bears

(My Rank: TE16 – Yahoo ​ADP TE15)

Cole Kmet has posted a⁢ target share ‍of at ⁢least 17% over the‍ past⁤ three seasons. However, with the additions of Keenan Allen, Rome ⁤Odunze,‍ and D’Andre ⁤Swift, it’s challenging ⁣to envision that ‌trend continuing—especially ​now that Kmet ‍is sharing time with Gerald Everett​ throughout the preseason.‍ Allen’s slot presence could be particularly detrimental ⁤to‌ Kmet, considering that ‍49% of his ​targets last season originated from⁣ that area. In fact, it might⁤ be new Chicago offensive coordinator Shane‍ Waldron who impacts⁢ Kmet ⁣the most negatively. Last season, ⁤under Waldron, the Seahawks finished 25th in tight⁣ end target share. Therefore, Cole Kmet’s​ 2024 performance will likely be constrained by ‌the influences of Keenan Allen,‍ Rome Odunze, D’Andre Swift,‌ Gerald Everett, and⁢ Shane⁢ Waldron. Truly ⁢a collective​ team effort.